An Upward Momentum: - Methodist University

Volume 51, Number 3 Fall 2010 

An Upward Momentum: 

Methodist University Experiences Significant Growth 

page 6

Contents 

1 MU News 

University Senate Approves Methodist University 

for Continued Listing as a United Methodist-Related 

Institution • The Search for a President and the 

Presidential Search Committee • Forty-Seventh 

Annual Spring Commencement Ceremony and 

2010 Graduates • Social Work Program Named 

Advocate of the Year • MU Celebrates the Opening 

of the William F. Bethune Center for Visual Arts 

• Community Garden Grows as a Result of a 

Community Partnership 

6 COver stOry 

An Upward Momentum: Methodist University 

Experiences Significant Growth 

9 MU AtHLetICs 

Spring Sports Wrap-up • Coming Soon: Hall of Fame 

Induction • Hall of Fame Golf Tournament • McLean 

Coach of the Year: Coach Conley 

12 ALUMNI News 

Birth Announcements • Weddings and Engagements 

• Class Notes • Choral Alumni Reunite at Carolina 

Beach • MU Alumni Association Holds Pig Pickin’ 

for 2010 Seniors • Thank You, MU Association of 

Friends! • Meet Your New Members of the MU 

Alumni Association Board of Directors • Monarch 

Connections: Submit Your Class Notes! 

• Homecoming 2010: Schedule of Events 

MU Today 

Volume 51, Number 3 Fall 2010 

On the Cover: (L-R): Abhishek Kansakar, 22, from 

Lazimpat (a residential area of Kathmandu, the capital city 

of Nepal); Jasmina Gobeljic, 19, from Zivinice, Bosnia and 

Herzegovina; and Anja Sakotic, 20, from Mostar, Bosnia 

and Herzegovina at the reading cafe in the Davis Memorial 

Library. International student enrollment is at a record high 

this fall. Read more about MU’s upward momentum on 

pages 6-8. 

Editor 

Maria Sikoryak-Robins 

Associate Editor 

Robin Davenport 

Alumni Editor 

Lauren Cook Wike 

Associate Alumni Editor 

Mindy Prouty 

Athletics Editor 

Kirbie Britt 

Campus Photographer 

Roxana Ross 

Contributing Editors 

Ray Baker 

Bill Billings 

Jasmina Gobeljic 

Krista Lee 

Pam McEvoy 

Rhonda McMillan 

Michael Molter 

Anja Sakotic 

Adriana Wilson 

Creative Director 

Rhonda Forbes 

Photo Contributors 

Bill Parish 

Yashaswi “Yasu” Shrestha 

Vice President of 

Church and Community 

Relations 

The Rev. Dr. Michael Safley 

Dean of the University 

Dr. Delmas Crisp 

President 

Dr. M. Elton Hendricks 

Methodist University Today Magazine (USPS 074-560) is published quarterly for friends and 

alumni of Methodist University by the University Relations Office, Methodist University, 5400 

Ramsey Street, Fayetteville, NC 28311-1498. Periodicals postage paid at Fayetteville, NC 

28302-9651 and additional mailing offices. Printed by The R.L. Bryan Company. 

Methodist University does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, gender, national or 

ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation or disabilities for otherwise qualified persons in the 

administration of its admissions, educational policies, scholarships, loan programs, athletics, 

employment or any other university-sponsored or advertised program. 

Methodist University is related by faith to the North Carolina Annual Conference, Southeastern 

Jurisdiction, The United Methodist Church. Methodist University is an independent corporation 

rather than an agency of the Conference and is responsible for its own debts and obligations. 

Postmaster: Send address changes to Methodist University Today Magazine, Office of University 

Relations, Attn: Maria Sikoryak-Robins, 5400 Ramsey Street, Fayetteville, NC 28311-1498. 

Circulation: 22,000 copies.

University Senate Approves 

Methodist University 

for Continued Listing as a 

United Methodist-Related Institution proud of the many student organizations which are related to its 

mission as a United Methodist institution.” 

Over 300 students participate weekly in organizations and 

Dr. M. Elton Hendricks, president of Methodist 

University, has announced that Methodist University 

was approved by the University Senate of the United 

Methodist Church for continued listing, without 

qualification, as a United Methodist-related institution. 

Based on the recommendation of the Commission on 

Institutional Review, Dr. Hendricks was informed of 

the approval June 30, 2010, after a meeting of the 

University Senate was held June 24, 2010. 

The University was evaluated on the aspects that follow: institutional 

integrity, program quality, sound management and financial health, and 

church relatedness. According to an excerpt from the University Senate’s 

report, “Only rarely has the team seen an institution such as Methodist 

University where the traditions and principles of The United Methodist 

Church so thoroughly permeate the institution. The University is rightly 

The Search for a 

President 

The Board of Trustees is in the process of conducting a search for the 

new president of Methodist University. Dr. Hendricks officially announced his 

retirement January 7, 2010, and over the last 27 years, he has helped bring 

the institution to its current status as a leader of higher education in the 

region and state. 

In addition, Board of Trustees has formed a search committee that will 

assist with the national search for a successor. The committee is moving 

forward with this process in a timely, thoughtful manner. The University has 

also retained the services of a highly respected search firm, Academic-Search, 

Inc., to assist with the search process. 

activities, such as Bible Study for male and female students, worship 

held Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. throughout the academic year, and 

Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), which is the largest student 

organization on campus. The University sponsors a praise and worship 

band, Common Ground, and One Voice, an international Gospel choir. 

The Rev. Dr. Michael Safley, vice president for University Relations and 

Campus Ministry; Jan Turner, Instructor of ESL/TESL; and Sam Morrison, 

director of University Events, have organized two spring break mission 

trips for work teams of up to 16 students to go to Belize and the 

Bahamas. Additionally, the University offers Pastor’s Certificates, which 

provide $1,000 scholarships to any United Methodist student from the 

pastor’s congregation. The general education curriculum requires that 

students complete two religion courses and a church leadership minor 

has been implemented for students interested in lay church leadership 

training. 

According to the report, “Much of the relationship [with the United 

Methodist Church] is attributable to the University president, who has 

made the relationship important during his years at the institution.” 

The Search Committee 

Committee Chair: 

Mr. Harvey T. Wright II 

Board of Trustees 

Committee Members: 

Dr. Richard R. Allen, Sr. 


Dr. Lori Brookman 

Faculty 

Dr. Mary Lynn Bryan 


Mr. Alfred E. Cleveland 


Mrs. Jane Weeks Gardiner 

Administration 

MU Today | MU News 

The Rev. Dr. Brian G. Gentle 


Mrs. Betty Upchurch Hasty 


Mr. Earl D. Leake 


Mr. Rick Lowe 

Administration 

Mr. Ron B. Matthews 


Mr. Joel Thomas 

Student 

Mr. Ramon L. Yarborough 


The committee has developed a list of leadership characteristics that are mandatory for the next president of Methodist University. These qualities are 

essential in the formation of new programs, community relations, and campus funding, as Methodist University moves forward with new and exciting 

opportunities. For updates and additional information about the presidential search, please visit www.methodist.edu/presidentsearch/. 

FALL 2010 | 1


47th Annual Spring Commencement 

The commencement ceremony took place in the March F. Riddle Center. The day’s events began with 

a baccalaureate service at 10:30 a.m., which was held in Reeves Auditorium. Bishop Alfred Wesley 

Gwinn, Jr. delivered the baccalaureate sermon. The spring commencement speaker was Dr. M. Elton 

Hendricks, president of Methodist University. 

The following graduates were commissioned as officers in the United States Army: Charles Coldiron, 

Jennifer Farland, Jennifer Kiner, Hilary Nimmo, Todd Sackewitz, and Alexander Smith. In a custom 

inaugurated at MU in 1985, five graduating seniors presented flags during the ceremony: Manoela 

Kinney (Brazil), Margina Cocozza-Bendana (Costa Rica), Anas Iqtait (Palestine), Mame Coumba Mbodji 

(Senegal), and Salek Maoloud-Lebaihi (Western Sahara). 

NOTE: Graduate listing compiled by Adriana Wilson, a senior at Methodist University majoring in mass 

communications. Wilson completed a summer internship in the Office of University Relations, where she 

worked as an editorial assistant. 

2 | MU Today 

MU CeLebrATeS 

Ceremony 

Methodist University graduated 163 students during the 

47th Annual Spring Commencement May 15, 2010. 

Pictured above (L-r): The rev. russell Kinlaw, pastor at refuge Pentecostal Holiness Church in Hope Mills; 

Johanna Winters, May 2010 graduate; the rev. Dr. Michael Safley, vice-president for University relations 

and campus minister; bishop Al Gwinn, resident bishop for the North Carolina Conference of the United 

Methodist Church; the rev. Pat Lykins, minister of outreach at Saint Francis United Methodist Church in Cary; 

Dr. M. elton Hendricks, MU president; and the rev. Jerry Jackson, pastor at bellemont UMC in burlington 

› 

2010 Graduates 

Students who graduated from Methodist 

University, but whose names do not appear on 

this list, have specifically requested omission 

from external publications. 

Name City and State 

Terri Allen Fayetteville, N.C. 

Michelle Anderson White Plains, Md. 

Samantha Arrington** Sanford, N.C. 

Stephen Avent Sanford, N.C. 

Allison Averitt Laurinburg, N.C. 

Antonio Bartee Alachua, Fla. 

Tiffany Battle Rocky Mount, N.C. 

Stephen Bazan* Benson, N.C. 

Emily Beck* Tenafly, N.J. 

Matthew Beitzel Franklinville, N.C. 

Lara Bell Fayetteville, N.C. 

Fallon Bethel*** Fayetteville, N.C. 

Eric Blalock Apex, N.C. 

Tara Bland* Fayetteville, N.C. 

Thomas Blum Bay Shore, N.Y. 

Heather Brayton** Midway Park, N.C. 

Kevin Breisch Olympia, Wash. 

Bret Brennan Horsham, Pa. 

James Bristol Holly Springs, N.C. 

Emil Brown Roseboro, N.C. 

Genika Brown Fayetteville, N.C. 

Jennifer Butler* Fayetteville, N.C. 

Justin Cains** Fayetteville, N.C. 

Kelsey Carter Herndon, Va. 

Anthony Cassone Apex, N.C. 

Taylor Cates Hillsborough, N.C. 

Amber Cava Clinton, N.C. 

Julia Cava Alexandria, Va. 

George Chacon Spring Lake, N.C. 

Margina Cocozza Fayetteville, N.C. 

Charles Coldiron Fayetteville, N.C. 

Lindsey Cosgray** Middletown, Md. 

John Coval Spring Lake, N.C. 

Douglas Crawley Fayetteville, N.C. 

Joshua Crumpler Newton Grove, N.C. 

Kent Culmer Fayetteville, N.C. 

Bradley Davis Aberdeen, N.C. 

Dayne Delabastide*** Fayetteville, N.C. 

Andrea Distefano Albany, N.Y. 

Thomas Dixon Fayetteville, N.C. 

Michael Dooley Hope Mills, N.C. 

Tara Doyle Forest, Va.


Dimple Dutt** Fayetteville, N.C. 

Jennifer Farland* Fayetteville, N.C. 

Alejandro Flores Fort Bragg, N.C. 

Sakun Gajurel** Fayetteville, N.C. 

William Gallagher Keene, N.H. 

Kristen Gault Valdosta, Ga. 

Laura Gilbert* Fayetteville, N.C. 

Christine Goin Fayetteville, N.C. 

Brian Goodwin Greensboro, N.C. 

Anna Gore Fayetteville, N.C. 

Averi Grady Erwin, N.C. 

Sanid El-Haoua Hope Mills, N.C. 

Casey Haigler Monroe, N.C. 

Brittany Hall Fayetteville, N.C. 

Denzil Halliday Fayetteville, N.C. 

Lindsey Hargrove* Erwin, N.C. 

Roxanne Harris Fayetteville, N.C. 

Pedro Hernandez Southern Pines, N.C. 

Erika Holland* Fayetteville, N.C. 

Shelly Horn* Clayton, N.C. 

Nichole Houy* Fayetteville, N.C. 

Marvis Howell Fayetteville, N.C. 

Janna Huffstutler Spring Lake, N.C. 

Anas Iqtait Fayetteville, N.C. 

Jeri Jackson Burlington, N.C. 

Mary Jackson Erwin, N.C. 

William Jackson Autryville, N.C. 

Danny Jaramillo Raeford, N.C. 

Qingsong Jiang Fayetteville, N.C. 

Kevin Jones Fayetteville, N.C. 

Landon Jordan Tyner, N.C. 

Lalage Katunga* Charlotte, N.C. 

Kurt Kelly Wilmington, N.C. 

Cattina Kentcy Fayetteville, N.C. 

Cortney Kerns Henderson, N.C. 

Davana Kessler Brockway, Pa. 

Jennifer Kiner* Fayetteville, N.C. 

Hannah Kinlaw Hope Mills, N.C. 

Manoela Kinney*** Pinehurst, N.C. 

Kristi Kozak*** Fayetteville, N.C. 

Paul Lathan Belmont, N.C. 

Brian Leary Edenton, N.C. 

Anthony Liuzza Atlanta, Ga. 


Brian Lopez Ridgefield, Conn. 

Byron Lowe Fayetteville, N.C. 

Jessalyn Lykins Apex, N.C. 

Rodney Machokoto Fayetteville, N.C. 

Salek Maoloud-Lebaihi** Fayetteville, N.C. 

Marco Marin Fayetteville, N.C. 

Sanda Markovic Fayetteville, N. 

Rebecca Marks** Erwin, N.C. 

Donna Maultsby* Hope Mills, N.C. 

Joshua May Fayetteville, N.C. 

Mame Mbodji*** Fayetteville, N.C. 

Kaitlin McGuire* Easton, Md. 

Cameron McLaughlin Fayetteville, N.C. 

Tieisha McNeil Fayetteville, N.C. 

Sierra McWilliams*** Fayetteville, N.C. 

Crystal Metzger Pine Hill, N.J. 

Ashley Meyers Fayetteville, N.C. 

Maureen Molter Fayetteville, N.C. 

Pamela Morgan Apalachin, N.Y. 

Marianne Mosch** Fayetteville, N.C. 

Kiho Mushiga Linden, N.C. 

Hilary Nimmo Hope Mills, N.C. 

Melissa Owen Roseboro, N.C. 

Maegan Owens Hope Mills, N.C. 

Robert Oxley Edgewater, Md. 

Chase Pattillo Fayetteville, N.C. 

Nicole Pavalski Fayetteville, N.C. 

Jessica Pechette Fayetteville, N.C. 

Alexander Peets Fayetteville, N.C. 

Christopher Peoples Reidsville, N.C. 

Neil Perron Quechee, Vt. 

Taisiya Petruchenya*** Fayetteville, N.C. 

Deanna Piacente Fayetteville, N.C. 

Jessica Rambaud Massillon, Ohio 

Lauren Ratley Fayetteville, N.C. 

Timothy Reeves** Raeford, N.C. 

Jordan Riojas Hope Mills, N.C. 

Academic Honors 

***Summa Cum Laude: Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.90 and above 

**Magna Cum Laude: GPA of 3.70 and above 

*Cum Laude: 3.5 and above 


Whitney Roberson* Kitty Hawk, N.C. 

Cavis Rodney Fayetteville, N.C. 

Brian Ross North Attleboro, Mass. 

Todd Sackewitz* Fayetteville, N.C. 

Shelly Savoy Fayetteville, N.C. 

Alicia Secord Hope Mills, N.C. 

Jonathan Self Fairport, N.Y. 

Matthew Sessoms** Roseboro, N.C. 

Kelly Shipkowski** Cary, N.C. 

Tyler Sigman Winfield, W.Va. 

Cathryn Sinkovitz Parkton, N.C. 

Alexander Smith Southern Pines, N.C. 

Ethan Smith Fayetteville, N.C. 

James Smith Fayetteville, N.C. 

Ashley Smulders Hoboken, N.J. 

Matthew Starr Fayetteville, N.C. 

Joseph Tate Gastonia, N.C. 

Erik Teague Reidsville, N.C. 

Andre Thomas Harvey, Ill. 

Caroline Thomas*** Fayetteville, N.C. 

Angela Thompson Cameron, N.C. 

Thomas Tollevsen Cameron, N.C. 

Brusana Van Wagner Fayetteville, N.C. 

Christina Varnell Kill Devil Hill, N.C. 

Tiffanie Wagner Spring Lake, N.C. 

Alisha Washington Angier, N.C. 

Brad Wheatley Shirley, Mass. 

Kristen Whitehurst Garner, N.C. 

Beverly Williams* Hope Mills, N.C. 

Danielle Willis* Fayetteville, N.C. 

Eric Wilson Greensboro, N.C. 

Johanna Winter* Fayetteville, N.C. 

Danele Woods** Bloomington, Ill. 

Tiffany Yan Wrightstown, N.J. 

Alexander Ybarra Hope Mills, N.C. 

Max Zaldivar Fayetteville, N.C. 

Tiffany Zellhart Greenville, N.C. 

FALL 2010 | 3


Social Work Program Named 

Advocate of the Year 

The North Carolina Chapter of the National Association of Social 

Workers has named the Social Work Department at Methodist University 

the recipient of the Advocate of the Year Award. The award was presented 

at the annual ethics conference and awards ceremony March 5, 2010 

at the McKimmon Center in Raleigh. Jack Register, M.S.W., L.C.S.W., 

director of advocacy and legislations, said, “The work that your students 

did in 2007 and 2008 laid the foundation for the 2009 Title Protection 

Bill. “Your students represent social work advocacy at its best and the 

profession is better because of their efforts.” 

This project, which began in the spring of 2007, was launched by 

a group of students in the Social Work Policy 372 class. The students 

recognized the lack of title protection for social workers and were 

concerned about the impact this had on clients, social workers, and 

the overall welfare of the human services environment. The students 

researched the ways that other states addressed title protection and 

created a proposal that detailed how North Carolina could incorporate 

title protection. The students also researched the educational 

requirements of social work versus other human service majors to show 

how social work is a career that is fine-tuned to meet the needs of clients. 

Representative Margret Dickson (Cumberland County) met with the 

students to discuss the need for title protection and other considerations 

that needed to be addressed to further the project. Based on the advice 

given by Representative Dickson, the students continued to revise the 

MU Celebrates the Opening of the 

William F. bethune Center 

for Visual Arts 

Classes are underway this fall in one of Methodist University’s newest 

additions, the William F. Bethune Center for Visual Arts. 

After breaking ground in April of 2009, a building dedication held 

April 27, 2010, marked the official opening of the Center for Visual Arts 

to the MU community. William F. Bethune, a Fayetteville resident, provided 

the major gift to make possible the building. 

“I think a lot of this University,” said Bethune at the building 

dedication ceremony. “There is no place in North Carolina like it.” The 

staff members at Methodist University, he said, have made a lasting 

impact. “When you see dedicated staff members, you find a dedicated 

program.” 

“He has certainly left a legacy that will last for many years,” said 

Harvey Wright, chair of the Board of Trustees, speaking of Bethune. 

The building also contains the David McCune International Art Gallery 

named in honor of local artist David McCune. In addition to student 

4 | MU Today 

proposal so that it would illustrate the ways other states had incorporated 

title protections and possible benefits of title protection. These students 

then took their proposal to meet with the delegates from Cumberland 

County and engaged in an exchange of ideas with the delegates. 

Due to the state legislation’s work schedule, the proposal could not 

be introduced into the House until May 2009. In the spring of 2008, 

Methodist University’s Social Work Program continued to follow the 

progress of other states seeking title protection, as well as build support 

with other B.S.W. programs in the state. The faculty, current students, and 

returning students met again with Representative Dickson to update her 

on new findings. This collaboration resulted in a letter writing campaign 

to those in other B.S.W. programs. The letters explained the the Social 

Work Program’s purpose and goals regarding title protection, and asked 

for support from these programs. The other B.S.W. programs responded 

favorably and worked in support of title protection in North Carolina. It 

was at this time that the members of Methodist University’s Social Work 

Department joined forces with the National Association of Social Workers. 

In May of 2009, Representative Rick Glazier (Cumberland County) 

introduced title protection, and the bill was passed and signed into law by 

Gov. Beverly Purdue. 

Pictured from left to right: Art faculty Kerry S. Jenkins, Peggy S. Hinson, 

and Silvana M. Foti; President M. elton Hendricks; Mr. William F. bethune; 

Mr. David McCune; and board of Trustees Chair Harvey T. Wright II ‘70. 

shows, the gallery will showcase local, regional, national, and international 

artists. The 8,844 square-foot floor plan includes a printmaking studio, 

painting studio, graphic design lab, photography lab, digital photo studio, 

and drawing and art education space. The facility is designed with a 

butterfly-angled roofline and incorporates exposed wood ceilings and beams. 

Silvana Foti, professor of art and chair of the Art Department, said 

the completion of the building is the culmination of a 30-year vision. Of 

Bethune and McCune, she said, “They truly are friends and mentors in our 

lives, and I thank them both.”

Community 

Garden 

G rowS 

as a result of a 

Community Partnership 

The Cumberland County Schools Board of Education conceived 

the community garden at Pauline Jones School of Arts in response 

to the acquisition of an adjacent piece of property in January 2009. 

In cooperation with the Cumberland County Schools Grounds and 

Maintenance Department, Sustainable Sandhills, and Cape Fear 

Botanical Garden, coordinators Heather Kaiser and Joy Pitts were able 

to develop the garden plan as part of their participation in the Green 

Schools Initiative of Cumberland County Schools. Early partnerships with 

Cumberland County Solid Waste Department, Evans Methodist Church 

Boy Scout Troup, and Methodist University’s Social Work Department 

allowed the group to build the area up with rich compost material and 

then test the soil and plant the first flower bulbs, tomatoes, gourds, 

and flowering cabbages for a spring/summer 2009 crop. 

“The Methodist University Social Work Program is proud of the 

community garden initiative,” said George Hendricks, Ph.D., associate 

professor of social work and chair of the Social Work Department. 

“We are also excited about our ongoing partnership with Pauline Jones 

Elementary School. Our participation in this project demonstrates the 

commitment on the part of Methodist University and the Social Work 

Program to reach out to the local community. It is our vision that the 

community garden initiative will serve to enlighten the Pauline Jones 

students and strengthen their community.” 

After a successful year of cutting energy costs, Kaiser and Pitts 

were awarded a rebate that was used to move to the next phase of the 

garden. During the 2009-2010 academic year, the partnership expanded 


Pictured at left (L-R): Professor Mary Deyampert-McCall, 

Professor Deborah Murray, Dr. George Hendricks, and 

Dr. Bonnie Belcastro, all faculty in the Department of social work. 

“The Methodist University Social Work Program is honored to receive 

the NASW-NC Advocate of the Year Award, said George Hendricks, Ph.D., 

associate professor of social work and chair of the Social Work Department. 

“We are humbled that our colleagues recognized the need for title protection 

in the State of North Carolina. Just as in medicine, it is important for social 

workers to be recognized for their training and expertise. If an individual 

claims to be a social worker, he or she must have earned a B.S.W. or M.S.W. 

from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work. This protection 

serves to guard against ill-informed and untrained workers in our field. The 

title protection legislation will result in more qualified workers who are 

committed to advocating for children and families in North Carolina. We look 

forward to continuing our advocacy efforts in this important area.” 

to include Fayetteville State University, Bell’s Seed Store, and a number of 

landscaping companies. Benches, decorative arches, fruit trees, decorative 

grasses, blueberry bushes, strawberry plants, and azalea bushes were 

among the additions to the community garden in its second phase. As a 

part of Bonnie Plants’ annual competition, students in third grade planted 

and cared for cabbage plants from March until June 2010. In April of 2010, 

the community garden was featured as the first stop on the Sustainable 

Sandhills Urban Farm Tour. 

“It is our hope to continue 

these partnerships and events 

while moving forward with the 

next phase of the community 

garden, which includes plans for a 

grape arbor in the coming year,” 

said Pitts. 

FALL 2010 | 5

MU Today | COVeR sTORY 

An Upward 

Momentum: 

Methodist University 

Experiences Significant Growth 

6 | MU Today 

By Maria Sikoryak-Robins and Adriana Wilson 

Two-thousand and nine was a banner year in the life of Methodist University. 

The freshman class grew from its previous all-time high of 431 to 469. The 

overall day-student enrollment increased from 1,603 in the fall of 2008 to 1,658 in the fall of 2009. Graduate 

enrollment increased from 145 students in 2008 to 182 students in 2009. The Southern Association of Colleges 

and Schools’ (SACS) Commission on Colleges reaffirmed the University’s accreditation with no recommendations 

and a strategic plan was later developed to lay the groundwork for the next five years. 

Thus far, the beginning of the 2010 academic year has yielded an unparalleled upward momentum, and the 

University has experienced its largest ever day, overall, residential, and graduate enrollments. 

What follows is a look at the current enrollment compared with the previous record enrollment numbers: 

eNroLLMeNT PreVIoUS reCorD 2010 

Day-Student Enrollment Fall 2009: 1,658 1,902 

Residential Student Enrollment Fall 2009: 949 1,079 

Graduate Student Enrollment Fall 2009: 182 201 

Overall Enrollment Fall 2004: 2,277 2,343* 

* This number may change at the end of fall evening II drop/add period Nov. 5, 2010 

Alpha Delta Pi House

Due to its explosive residential growth, the University has contracted 

off-campus housing to accommodate students. A decision about 

expanding the University’s on-campus residential housing will likely be 

made in the near future. While the enrollment surge has been the topic 

of most conversations on campus, the growth has extended to many 

areas within the University. 

The expansion of Academic and 

student Programs 

Nursing Program: The State Board of Nursing met in January 2010 

and unanimously approved the University’s proposal to add a Nursing 

Program. To celebrate the official launch of the Nursing Program, the 

Rev. Dr. Michael Safley and the Rev. Ray Gooch—former roommates and 

graduates of Methodist University—delivered a blessing at 2 p.m. Friday, 

Aug. 27, 2010. Mary Hall, B.S.N., M.S.N., director of the Nursing Program, 

confirmed that 85 students are currently enrolled in the pre-nursing track 

for the fall 2010 semester. The program will be housed in the basement 

of the Science Building. 

International Programs: International enrollment is at a record high, 

with over 100 international students living on campus this fall. A reception 

was held Sept. 9, 2010 to officially welcome the international population. 

Methodist University has one of the largest international programs among 

North Carolina’s 36 independent colleges and universities. 

Church Leadership Minor: The Laura S. Tally Center for Leadership 

Development recently added to its curriculum a minor in church 

leadership. The program explores effective leadership within the context 

of established churches, mission organizations, para-church ministries, 

camps, youth ministries, and children’s ministries. The course work 

includes a foundation in the Old and New Testaments, and a look at the 

principles of leadership, as well as the study of church government and 

politics, theology and worship, and spiritual foundation. 

Study Abroad Program: Magda Baggett, coordinator for Methodist 

University’s Study Abroad Program, announced that the program has 

signed on to a consortium that gives Methodist University exchange partner 

institutions in more countries than its existing list of partners (France, 


Ireland, and Mexico). Destinations now include Japan, Canada, Spain, 

Korea, Brazil, Iceland, Chile, Honduras, and Columbia. Some programs 

focus on a particular field of study, while others offer a general curriculum. 

In 2011, Dr. Emily Leverett, assistant professor of English, will lead 

a trip to London over spring break. Students will see many of London’s 

attractions, including the British Museum, the British Library, the Tower, 

St. Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster Abby, and the Globe Theater. During 

this one-credit independent study course in English, students will have 

the opportunity to watch a Shakespeare production at the Globe. 

New Academic Concentrations: The study of international relations 

is now offered as a concentration within the political science major. 

Students can pursue this concentration while they are earning either 

a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts. The study of international 

relations will prepare students to enter the Foreign Service or the 

intelligence community. They may also join a nongovernmental 

organization, an international corporation, or begin graduate study. 

According to Dr. Andrew Ziegler, chair of the Department of Government 

Studies and director of the Tally Leadership Center, this concentration is 

ideal for students who are anticipating a military career. 

Methodist University now offers a concentration in biochemistry, 

and the MBA Program has added a concentration in health care 

administration. The 12-13 course MBA Program continues online with 

two weekend class sessions per eight-week term. The Professional MBA 

at MU is designed to allow students to continue their full-time careers 

while earning their degree in 16-18 months. The application deadline 

for spring 2011 is October 19, 2010. 

Communications Department: The Communications Department 

has taken steps to update its facilities and resources and generate 

exposure for many of its programs. The department offers a wide 

variety of courses, ranging from Web design, graphic design, and 

video editing, to radio production, journalism, and public speaking. 

In conjunction with COM335 (Public Relations), Patrick O’Rourke, 

assistant professor of communications, is overseeing a student-led 

strategic communications campaign that will enhance the department’s 

materials used for promotional, marketing, and recruitment purposes. 

(continued on next page) 

FALL 2010 | 7


The English Department has introduced a Professional Writing 

Certificate (PWC) Program, which is an18-semester-hour, nine-month 

sequence of courses primarily for working adults but also open to 

traditional students. 

Social Work Program: The North Carolina Chapter of the National 

Association of Social Workers named the MU Social Work Department the 

recipient of the Advocate of the Year Award. The award was presented 

at an awards ceremony March 5, 2010. The department is committed 

to maintaining an ongoing community service partnership with many 

organizations in the surrounding area. 

CTA Certification: Students majoring in Resort Management are now 

afforded the opportunity to earn Certificate Tourism Ambassador (CTA) 

certification, according to Sharon Kendrick, Ph.D., assistant professor and 

the director of the Resort and Club Management Program. 

Musical Groups Flourish: The Marching Monarchs “Pride of the 

Carolinas” made its second debut at this year’s first football game. The 

marching band was introduced to the Methodist community in 2009, and 

has grown from 38 students in 2009 to 51 students in 2010. Scholarships 

of up to $1,000 are available to students who play for the “Pride of 

the Carolinas.” The Methodist University Choir Program is offering 

performances to churches within the North Carolina Conference of the 

United Methodist Church for services or special events from October 2010 

through May 2011. “In the past three years, we have performed at over 

15 United Methodist Churches, from South Carolina to New Jersey,” said 

Michael Martin, M.M.Ed., M.M., director of choral activities and music 

education at Methodist University. The MU Chorale is trying to raise 

funds for its upcoming European tour in March of 2011, which includes 

performances in Amsterdam, Brussels, and Paris.” Friends of Music will 

continue to offer special concerts with guest artists and University groups. 

The concerts are free and open to the community. 

Campus Additions 

The physical campus has grown rapidly over the last two years. Some 

of the University’s newest additions include the following: 

• The renovation of an obsolete boiler plant resulted in what is now 

an 8-000 square-foot football Field House. 

• A building dedication in April of this year marked the official opening 

of the William F. Bethune Center for Visual Arts. The building also 

features the McCune International Art Gallery, named for local artist 

David McCune. 

8 | MU Today 

• Soon after the beginning of the fall 2010 semester, the Alpha Delta Pi 

house opened its doors and is now home to over 20 sorority members. 

• In order to expand its enrollment, two buildings are being 

constructed for Methodist University’s Physician Assistant (PA) 

Program. The complex will feature a 7,000 square-foot Medical 

Lecture Hall and a 3,800 square-foot Human Anatomy Laboratory. 

An official dedication ceremony will be held in Fall 2010 to celebrate 

the opening of the two new buildings in the Physician Assistant 

Program Complex. 

Football Field House 

Facility Upgrades 

The University has completed several upgrades within its academic 

buildings. Automatic doors and elevators are being added to the Trustees 

Classroom Building Building to make its resources accessible to persons 

with disabilities. The Communication Department’s facilities, housed 

predominantly in T-380, have undergone many upgrades, which include 

painted walls, new floors, high definition video projection, the latest 

editing software, and a SMART Board. 

The University underwent a campus-wide paving project in the spring 

of 2010, which resulted in the repaving of the front part of the campus. In 

the summer, the second floor of the Mallett-Rogers House was renovated 

to accommodate five additional faculty offices. The Mallett-Rogers House 

and the annex that is located behind the building now feature new cedar 

shake shingled roofs. 

The Methodist University community anticipates a successful and 

memorable 2010-2011 academic year. As the institution continues to 

provide opportunities for students and those within surrounding area, the 

MU community expresses its sincerest appreciation to those who have 

supported the institution’s upward momentum.

MU Today | ATHLeTICs 

SPRING Sports 

WRaP-UP 

The Methodist spring sports teams wrapped up another successful 

season in May with two conference titles, two team national 

championships, and an individual national title. 

The baseball team came up just short of a berth in the NCAA 

Tournament finishing at 28-14 this season. Sophomore catcher 

earned Second Team All-American recognition and the team 

helped to host the 2010 NCAA Baseball South Regional where 

Shenandoah University advanced to the Division III World Series. 

Women’s tennis Head Coach Francie Barragan led her team 

to continued success with a sweep of the USA South Athletic 

Conference regular season and tournament championships. Junior 

Kaitlin Flaherty was named the conference Player of the Year and the 

tournament’s Most Valuable Player, while Barragan earned 

conference Coach of the Year honors for the fourth time. With the 

conference tournament championship, the Monarchs advanced to 

the NCAA Tournament and defeated Agnes Scott before falling to 

Emory. The team finished with a program record 23 wins. 

The men’s tennis team finished 10-9 in 2010 with a conference 

record of 3-3. Junior Matthew Taylor was a first team USA South 

All-Conference selection while freshman Robert Clayton earned 

honorable mention honors. 

Ron Simpson led the softball team to a 13-5 conference record 

despite finishing 18-23 overall. The season highlights included 

playing under the lights on Monarch Field for the first time and a 

six-game conference winning streak. Freshman Katie Byrd and 

junior Jody Eyler earned first team All-Conference recognition. 

The Methodist lacrosse team battled to a 5-8 record this 

season, which included earning wins over N.C. Wesleyan College 

and Randolph College to finish on a two-game winning streak. 

Sophomore Jasmine Stephens was named to the USA South 

First Team All-Conference for her efforts. 

Both the men’s and women’s 

golf teams approached 

the NCAA Division III Golf 

Championships ranked number 

one by their respective coaches’ 

associations. 

The men’s golf team was 

trailing after the first round 

but used a five stroke lead 

after the third round to hold 

on for a one-stroke victory 

for their 10th national title. 

Seniors Trey Howell and 

Josh Schrader were named 

first team All-Americans 

while head coach was named the USA South Coach of the Year and the 

Division III Coach of the Year before following up with the MU Coach of 

the Year recognition. 

First year Head Coach Tom Inczauskis kept the dynasty alive by 

leading the women’s golf team to their 13th straight national 

championship. Senior Susan Martin was named the Division III 

Player of the Year while junior Paige Caldwell joined Martin as 

first team All-Americans. The Monarchs combined to win 

the title by 19 strokes. 

The Methodist track 

and field team 

continues to receive 

national recognition 

under Head Coach 

Duane Ross. Six 

student-athletes 

qualified for the NCAA 

Championships in six 

different events. 

Freshman Ruby 

Blackwell made her 

mark winning the 200 

meter race and 

finishing third in the 

100 meters. Sophomore Ashlynn Chavis earned 

All-American honors in the long jump and the men’s 

4x100 meter relay team made up of Cedric McGill, 

Pierson Singleton, Greg Bailey, and Stefan Johnson 

were named All-Americans. Bailey also earned 

All-American honors in the 200 meters. The All- 

American honors added to the 26 All-Conference 

awards the team received earlier in May. 

FALL 2010 | 9


SPRING Sports 

CoMING SooN: 

Hall of Fame Induction 

The Methodist University Department of Athletics will induct its 13th class into 

the Hall of Fame Oct. 22 as part of the annual Homecoming Festivities. 

The Methodist University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics initiated the 

Methodist Athletic Hall of Fame in 1997. The selection process is maintained and 

administered by a committee in conjunction with the Methodist University Athletic 

Booster Club. To be nominated, the inductees have to be athletes, coaches, or 

administrators who have compiled an outstanding career at Methodist and/or since 

leaving Methodist. 

Inductees become eligible for the prestigious honor five years after completing their 

eligibility and must have been of good character. Coaches and administrators become 

eligible for nomination two years after leaving the department unless they have 15 years 

of service or more in which they would become eligible immediately upon their departure. 

Currently, the Methodist Athletic Hall of Fame has 12 classes with 50 members. 

This fall, Methodist is pleased to induct women’s soccer player Tricia Criswell ‘91, 

Hall of Fame 

Golf Tournament 

Lowdermilk Award winners 

The 13th Annual Hall of Fame Golf Tournament was held at King’s Grant Golf & 

Country Club in June 2010. The winning alumni team (pictured above) claimed 

its second consecutive Lowdermilk Award, named for former Methodist Vice 

President Bill Lowdermilk and sponsored by Lance, Inc. This year’s Lowdermilk 

winners are (L-R): Lynder Serbio ‘93, Steve Moody ‘99, Anne Uleman ‘94, and 

Carmen Serbio III, ‘95. 

10 | MU Today 

WRaP-UP 

track and field runner Hamilton Cuthrell ‘99, 

volleyball player Theresa Dwenger ‘03, Dr. M. Elton 

Hendricks, president of Methodist University, and 

women’s tennis player Carla Simpson ‘03. 

Criswell was a four-year starter for the Monarchs 

helping the team to three conference championships 

and four NCAA tournament appearances. She was a 

three-time All-Conference, All-Region and All-American 

selection. Criswell also added Academic All-American 

recognition in 1989. 

Cuthrell finished his career as a five-time All- 

American in the 55 meters, 100 meters and 4x100 

meter relay. A former MU record holder in the 100 

and 200 meters, Cuthrell earned Methodist’s highest 

finish in a NCAA men’s running event earning the silver 

medal in the 55 meters at the 1996 NCAA Indoor 

Championships. Cuthrell also competed for the football 

and cheerleading teams. 

Dwenger was a three-time All-Conference selection 

while earning first team honors as a senior. She currently 

holds the records at Methodist for career assists and 

aces as well as season assists and aces. She also ranks 

in the top ten for a number of other categories finishing 

her career as one of the most decorated volleyball 

players in program history. 

Dr. Hendricks has demonstrated 27 years of 

passionate and committed leadership to the quality and 

growth of the athletic program at Methodist University. 

He spearheaded a capital campaign to raise $4 million 

to build the March F. Riddle Center, along with a number 

of other facility additions and upgrades. During his 

tenure, Methodist has added women’s golf, football, and 

women’s lacrosse, bringing to 19 the number of varsity 

sport offerings. 

Simpson is a well-decorated women’s tennis player 

after earning the ITA Small College National Doubles 

Champion honors in 2000 and 2001. She was a threetime 

first team All-Conference selection and doubles 

champion while being named the 2001 Conference 

Rookie of the Year. A three-time All-American, Simpson 

is also ranked number one in school history for overall 

doubles winning percentage. 

The Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place 

at the March F. Riddle Center Oct. 22, 2010 beginning 

at 6:30 p.m. For ticket information, contact the Athletics 

Office at (910) 630-7175.

The Thomas R. and Elizabeth E. McLean Foundation is pleased to 

announce the 2009-10 Methodist University Coach of the Year is men’s 

golf Head Coach Steve Conley. 

“The McLean Foundation “Coach of the Year” Award is in its second 

year, as Francie Barragan was the inaugural award winner for 2008-09. 

The award recognizes the top head coach in the MU Athletic Department. 

“Coach Conley had one of the most award winning and successful 

years of any coach in the country in 2009-10,” Director of Athletics Bob 

McEvoy said. “He truly was a shining star among many coaching stars on 

our staff. He is most deserving of this prestigious award, his commitment 

Coach of the Year: 

Coach Conley 


to excellence is most evident and was shown everyday and in every way 

by his student-athletes.” 

During the 2009-10 season, Conley has already been named the 

national Division III Coach of the Year by the Golf Coaches Association 

of America (GCAA) and the USA South Athletic Conference Coach of the 

Year. Conley led the team to his 20th conference title and 10th national 

title in 23 seasons at the helm of the Monarchs. 

The men’s golf team finished up this year with a 2.79 cumulative 

grade point average and participated in a number of community service 

projects in conjunction with the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, 

which included reading to elementary school students, project play day, 

and Cans Across the Conference. 

Conley was selected based on criteria set forth by the McLean 

Foundation and voted on by a committee of Methodist University faculty 

and staff. 

“I am really happy to be selected as Coach of the Year,” Conley said. 

“We have so many great coaches at MU, so it is quite an honor. I would 

also like to thank the McLean Foundation for their recognition and the 

award.” 

Three additional Methodist coaches were nominated for the Coach of 

the Year award including Melissa Hay (cheer), Dee Dee Jarman (women’s 

basketball), and Duane Ross (track and field). 

Show Your Mu Pride in a new waY! 

Introducing Methodist University’s North Carolina License Plate 

1 

2 

3 

To order your Methodist University License plate, go to 

www.methodist.edu/student_life/index.htm and 

click on the license plate graphic 

Complete the form and mail it to: 

The Development Office 

Methodist University, 5400 Ramsey Street 

Fayetteville, NC 28311 

When we reach our goal of 300 participants, 

we will call you to collect payment. The DMV 

will mail your license plate and tag directly to you. 

The cost to purchase this plate is in addition to the 

annual $28 license renewal fee. Methodist University 

will receive $15 for every MU plate purchased. 

QueStionS? 

Call Krista Lee at (910) 630-7200 

or e-mail klee@methodist.edu. 

FALL 2010 | 11

MU Today | ALUMNI News 

Alumni News 

bIrTH ANNoUNCeMeNTS 

Sarah Grace buchholz 

Lena Mae Hyjek 

Alec Thomas brandt 

12 | MU Today 

Grady Scott Alton 

benjamin Webb Clark 

Landon Maddox Jones 

Isabella Mae Cosper 

Angie Garner buchholz ‘93 and George Buchholz are pleased to 

93 announce the addition of another girl, Sarah Grace to the family. Sarah 

was born Feb. 15, and joins big brother Andrew (11) and Morgan (7). Angie and 

family live in Apex, N.C. Andrew’s baseball team (West Raleigh Blue) won the 

World Series this past summer in Lamar, Colo., and Morgan just finished her first 

season of basketball (Apex Silverhawks)! 

Jeffrey Alton ‘93 announces the birth of his son Grady Scott Alton, born March 

25, 2010. Grady joins big brother Casey (3) and step-sister Samantha (10) in 

the Alton family. Mother Joy is recovering nicely and can’t wait to get back to 

teaching seventh grade math. Alton teaches PE/Health and coaches varsity 

football and middle school wrestling in Stafford County,Va. 

Monica and Jeremy Hyjek ‘96 PGM, announce the birth of their 

96 daughter, Lena Mae. Lena was born February 2, 2010 at 12:07 a.m. She 

weighed 7 pounds, 14 1/2 ounces and was 19 1/2 inches long. Jeremy is the 

PGA director of golf at Kingsmill Resort, where he has worked since 2001. The 

family resides in Williamsburg, Va. 

Kendra (Gottsman) and David Clark, ‘98, ‘97 proudly 

97 & 98 announce the birth of their second child, Benjamin Webb, Nov. 2, 

2009. He joins older sister, Mackenzie (two years old). The family currently 

resides in New Jersey. 

03 

Tara Nestopoulos ‘03 and her husband, Charlie, are proud to announce 

the birth of their son, Alec Thomas Brandt, on April 15, 2010. 

Katherine King Jones ‘06 and her husband, Allen, are thrilled to 

06 announce the birth of their son, Landon Maddox Jones at 4:33 p.m. July 

28, 2009. Landon weighed 7 pounds 1 ounce and was 20 inches long. 

07 

Jennifer rhoads ‘07 and Max Cosper welcomed their first child, 

Isabella Mae, into the world on Aug. 12, 2009. 

Heather bitler ‘07 and her partner, Nicholas, welcomed identical twin girls into 

the world on May 3, 2010. 

WeDDINGS AND eNGAGeMeNTS 

W. Franklin Faulkner ’70 and his wife, Judy, celebrated their 50th 

70 wedding anniversary May 1, 2010 at Hope Mills United Methodist Church 

in Hope Mills, N.C. with their family and friends. 

Winifred “Winnie” Grannis’ ‘73 son, Charles Little McBryde Grannis, 

73 was married April 17, 2010 at First Presbyterian Church in Fayetteville, 

N.C. They currently reside in Fayetteville, N.C.

Joy Godwin Kirkpatrick ‘93 is engaged to Patrick H. Crowe. Joy is the 

95 National Editor of Kidsville News! and the Associate Publisher of Up & 

Coming Weekly in Fayetteville, N.C., and is a member of the Methodist University 

Foundation Board. Patrick is in the Air Force and originally from Pensacola, Fla. 

The couple will be married at Fort Fisher, N.C., in September. 

Darlene Dykas ’96 and Pete Woodward were married Jan. 28, 2010 at 

96 the Carribean Villas in San Pedro, Belize. Darlene is a flight attendant with 

American Airlines and Pete works for Etonic Running. They currently live in 

Wakefield, Mass. 

Whitney Anne Slaughter ’00 is engaged to Sergeant Eric James Hebel 

00 of Fort Bragg, N.C. The happy couple will exchange vows at a private 

ceremony. 

Matthew ruth ‘05 and Ashley Kotz ‘07 were married at Haymount 

05 Methodist Church in Fayetteville, N.C. Aug. 7, 2010. They will reside in 

Maryland. 

08 

Lauren Holton ’08 and Chad Cowell of Bayboro were married on 

July 9, 2010 at the Moon Palace in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. 

Matthew Pivko ’08 has announced his engagement to Catharine Fragale of 

New Bern, N.C. 

Amy Lynn Slate ’08 and Jeremiah Ryan McLamb, both of Fayetteville, N.C., 

were married at 5:00 p.m. April 24, 2010 at Northwood Temple Church. 

After a European honeymoon, the couple plans to reside in Fayetteville. 

09 

brittani Surratt ‘09 and Brian Burrows ‘10 have announced their 

engagement. They will be married Nov. 27, 2010. 

CLASS NoTeS 

Amos McLamb ‘64 writes, “I never intended to become famous, but I 

64 made the February 2010 issue of the North Carolina Our State Magazine. 

It is about our monthly Blue Grass pickin’ here in the old country store, Clear 

Run Grocery, on the banks of Black River in Southern Sampson County. Login 

and hear the music or drop by and enjoy it first hand any last Saturday night of 

the month. I stay busy raising Red Angus cattle, producing hay, doing timber 

management and producing high quality long leaf pine straw. Merrie and I have 

been married for 43 years and raised two kids. We produce our own vegetables 

and enjoy life in the country down on the farm. We enjoyed going back to MU 

last year for homecoming and catching up with old friends.” 


Darlen Dykas and Peter Woodward 

Joy Goodwin Kirkpatrick 

Lauren Holton and Chad Cowell 

FALL 2010 | 13


Alumni News (cont’d.) 

richard Meissner ‘66 was awarded the 2009 George and Helen 

66 Hartzog Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service, Enduring Service 

Category. Meissner has been volunteering at Cape Lookout National Seashore 

Park since 1997, and has served as their volunteer coordinator since 1999. 

Congratulations to Richard Meissner for an outstanding achievement! 

Mike Stevens ‘69 retired from Unisource Paper Company in June after 

69 30 years as a sales representative. He and his wife, Cecily, are moving to 

Brunswick Forest in Leland, across the river from Wilmington, N.C. They have four 

children and four grandchildren. 

14 | MU Today 

Amanda Cook 

richard Meissner 

Dianne Cox ‘71 recently retired from the Sampson County Department 

71 of Social Services after 38 years of dedicated service. She coordinated 

adoptions for many years and was the social work supervisor upon retirement. 

Charles Hartsell ‘72 writes, “My wife Donna and I have some news; 

72 our oldest son Van got married to Jillian in June. They both work for JP 

Morgan-Chase. Our youngest son, Grant, will graduate from Francis Marion 

University this coming year and will go into law enforcement. My oldest son 

plays the guitar and sings for a band. My wife works for a surgeon’s office in 

Florence and I am still self-employed as an insurance agent/broker and represent 

several companies in the senior market. Hope everyone is doing well.” 

rev. Dr. Jerry A. Jackson ‘75, pastor of Bellemont UMC, was presented 

75 the Harry Denman award by the Foundation for Evangelism during the 

Annual Conference of The North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist 

Church held in Greenville, N.C. June 10-13, 2010. 

MAJ David Lincoln USAF, ‘87 has been selected for promotion to 

87 Lieutenant Colonel effective Sept. 1, 2010. David is currently assigned to 

the Pentagon in Arlington, Va. 

Dr. Don Phipps ‘89 was recently named superintendent of the Beaufort 

89 County Schools in Washington, N.C. Prior to this position, Don served as 

a principal and executive director in the Cumberland County Schools and as 

department chair and a professor of Pfeiffer University. Don has also taught in 

MU’s evening program for several years. In addition to the professional 

promotion, Don was also married in December 2009 to Nancy Hawkins Smith. 

ron Phipps ‘89 was recently promoted to assistant superintendent of evaluation 

and testing with the Cumberland County Schools. Ron has worked with the 

Cumberland County Schools since his graduation from Methodist in 1989. 

Sheri rogers ‘89 has been awarded the Cleveland Community College 

Excellence in Teaching award for 2010. She was nominated for the Excellence in 

Teaching Award by a student and says she is truly honored and humbled to have 

been chosen from among so many other deserving instructors at Cleveland 

Community College. Rogers holds a Master of Arts in mathematics from 

Fayetteville State University, a Bachelor of Music in music education, and 

Bachelor of Science in mathematics education from Methodist University. 

Amanda Cook ‘92 wrote in to say, “Hello fellow MC Alumni! I live in 

92 Spain with my husband and three children. I moved here a few years ago. 

I met my husband, Cesar, here in Spain in 1991 when I studied abroad while at 

Methodist. Dr. Guzman helped me in the study abroad process. I am teaching 

English part-time in a nearby town. Cesar is a classical pianist and teaches at the 

Conservatorio Superior de Musica in Seville. We live in Utrera, a town about 30 

km from Seville. Our oldest son, Edison, is six. Claudio is four and started school 

this school year. Our little girl, Sofia, is two now and was born on Christmas Day. 

She stays at home with me. Take Care!”

ian Cuppet ‘92 has been named vice president of sales for ScanSource, a 

leading value-added distributor of communications products. Cuppet formerly 

served as director of business development for the company. 

LeCarla Gardner ‘93 wrote in to say, “Hi All! Don’t see many former 

93 classmates anymore! I’ve been a stay-at-home mom for the last 13 years, 

after teaching for two years at Alger B. Wilkins. My youngest daughter is in the 

fourth grade and my oldest is finishing eighth grade. I’ve been involved in direct 

sales for the last nine years, and currently I am a Tastefully Simple Consultant. 

My husband, Keith, works for the N.C. State Highway Patrol. Our family is very 

active in our church. Would love to hear from some fomer classmates!” E-mail 

LeCarla at LRoyal10900@intrstar.net. 

Camisha bell ‘95 recently received her Post-Master’s Certificate in 

95 advanced school counseling. Her next plan of action will be a Ph.D. 

in higher education, an add-on degree in administration, or another master’s 

degree in school psychology. She says, “I am still trying to decide what I want 

to be when I grow up.” 

Andrea Hairr ‘95 received National Board (teaching) Certification in 

November 2009. Andrea is an Exceptional Children’s Teacher at Stedman 

Elementary School. She and her husband, Kevin, are the proud parents of 

daughter Jana and son Kollin. 

Kellie Campbell ‘96 graduated in May from East Carolina University 

96 with a master’s degree in library science. Earning a 4.0 GPA and 

graduating summa cum laude, Kellie was also a Community-Oriented Library 

Recruitment Scholarship (COLRS) recipient. She worked full-time during her 

studies as a media center coordinator at Overhills High School in Harnett County. 

Summer 2010 will see new beginnings and expected travels for Kellie and her 

family as they move to Italy due to her husband’s job relocation. 

Madison “ridge” Johnson, II ‘01 CPA/AbV recently earned the 

01 Accredited in Business Valuation designation and is currently working in 

the Forensic, Litigation Support and Valuation Services department of the 

accounting firm Dixon Hughes PLLC in Charleston, S.C. 

Glen W. Murray ‘04 Junior Achievement of Sarasota County, Sarasota, 

04 Fla., has announced the appointment of Murray to its Board of Directors. 

Murray is the director of golf at the Ritz-Carlton Members Club. 

Jennifer Patrick-Swift ‘05 was recently hired as the new softball coach 

05 at Seton Hill University. Patrick-Swift previously served as a softball coach 

for several universities, including Washington & Jefferson College, Chowan 

University, and York College. 

Tom bergamine ‘07 recently received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine 

07 Award for his lifetime of service to the community in law enforcement. For 

the past 32 years, Bergamine has worked his way up in the City of Fayetteville, 

N.C. force, beginning in 1978. 

08 

Shannon Alford ‘08 was recently hired as resident director at Peace 

College in Raleigh, N.C. 

Marc Halcomb ‘08 recently transferred from the Florida Department of 

Juvenile Justice to the Department of Children and Families as a child 

protective investigator. 

Matthew Horvath ‘08 is the new head golf professional at Southern Pines 

Golf Club. He was previously assistant pro at Little River in Southern Pines, N.C. 

Mike Dooda ‘09 has been named the assistant golf professional at 

09 Little River Golf Resort in Southern Pines, which is in North Carolina’s 

Top 100 listing. 

Kellie Campbell 

North Carolina representative 

rick Glazier presents North Carolina’s 

highest civilian honor, 

an order of the Long Leaf Pine Award, 

to Police Chief Tom bergamine 

FALL 2010 | 15

choral alumni reunite at Carolina Beach 

Alumni, family, and friends gathered at Carolina Beach, N.C., June 25- 

27 for a choral reunion and as a surprise for Methodist University’s former 

music director, Alan Porter. Alumni traveled from as far away as Boston 

and Tennessee to reunite, share memories of trips to Europe and Nassau, 

and catch up with one another and their families. The group had dinner 

Friday evening at Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill, while most of Saturday 

was devoted to rehearsing, singing, and enjoying favorites conducted 

by reunion organizer Travis Kornegay ’98 and Mr. Porter. Solos were 

performed by former music faculty member Valerie Oyen-Larsen, Travis 

Kornegay ’98, and a duet was sung by Wesley rowell ’84 and 

Mr. Porter. Audience and alumni agreed that they did not want to stop 

singing, but free time on Saturday was for the children and the beach! 

That evening, Mr. and Mrs. Porter were surprised with a 49th anniversary 

cake after dinner at Michael’s Seafood. What follows is a list of alumni 

who attended: bill billings ’68; esther Christian Castaldo ’87; 

Lynn Gruber Clark ’72; Sara Falcon’95, ’10M; Hennigan “buddy” 

MU Alumni Association Holds 

Pig Pickin’ 

In a new effort to reach out to brand new alumni before they leave 

the campus, the Methodist University Alumni Association sponsored 

a Pig Pickin’ for graduating seniors on May 5. Alumni Association 

members prepared a feast for approximately 

70 seniors and 20 alumni who attended 

the outdoor social, which celebrated the 

graduates’ accomplishments and gave them 

an opportunity to network with alumni. Each 

senior received a bright green “Class of 2010” 

t-shirt and information about the benefits of 

being a Methodist alum. 

16 | MU Today 

for 2010 seniors 

Kearns ’84; Travis Kornegay ’98; Heather Daniel Locklear ’96; 

Sharmis oulton Powell ’99; Lawrence Quinnett ’06; Wesley 

rowell ’84; Katie brown-Schaffer ’96; robin Davenport ‘09, 

and Theresa and David Teague, ’94,’97. Retired professors Alan 

Porter, Elaine Porter, and Dr. Robert Christian, as well as Mrs. Kathy 

Christian and many family members of alumni also attended the event. 

Choral alumni will have the opportunity to reunite again at 

Homecoming 2010! Please make plans to join us October 23! Alan 

Porter and betty-Neil Parsons ’64 will both be attending; they 

look forward to reconnecting with their former students. We will also 

enjoy the guest conducting of Jason britt ’93, who is choral director 

at Cape Fear High School in Fayetteville, N.C. For more information 

about the Choral Reunion, please contact the Alumni Affairs Office at 

alumnioffice@methodist.edu or 910-630-7167. 

Thank you, 

MU Association of Friends! 

The Methodist University Association of Friends 

(formerly Clergy and Laity Friends) has given 

countless hours of their time and energy to special 

service projects over the last 30 years. This summer 

the work crew sanded, primed and painted the stage 

in Reeves Auditorium. Several alumni brought church 

youth groups to work for the three-day mission July 

12-14. All workers are housed and provided meals on 

campus while here. Alumni who participated in Work 

Days this year were the Rev. Dr. Jerry Jackson ’75, the 

Rev. Dr. Dennis Sheppard ’77, Lynn Clark ’72, and the 

Rev. Gil Wise ’83. MU Trustee Tom Walden has been 

responsible for leading this effort to spruce up our 

campus every summer and we are truly grateful for 

all he does for the Unversity.

Meet Your New Members of the 

mu alumni association 

Monarch alumni are represented by a 34-person Board that 

is elected from ten four-year class groupings ranging from 1964 

to 2010. The Methodist University Alumni Association (MUAA) 

works on programs to engage alumni with their alma mater 

and current students, faculty and staff; and seeks to promote 

the continued growth and success of the University. In 2010 

new officers were elected to two-year terms. Dr. Kelli Sapp ’91, 

professor of Biology at High Point University, is the new Alumni 

Association Board president; The rev. Dr. Jerry Jackson ’75, 

Pastor of Bellemont UMC is 1st vice president; betty-Neill Guy 

Parsons ’64, former MU choral director, is 2nd vice president, 

and the rev. Dr. Dennis Sheppard ’77, pastor of Hope Mills 

UMC in Hope Mills, N.C., is Secretary. Pictured on this page are 

the new Directors elected or appointed this year and the new 

president. For a complete list of MU Alumni Association Board 

members, visit the Alumni Association website under the 

Alumni tab at www.methodist.edu. 

ed Tuna Keil ’70 

1969-1973 

Keva Wilson ’09 

2009-2013 

Kelli Sapp ’91 

Kathia ennett ’76 

1974-1978 

rev. Gil Wise ’83 

1979-1983 

Marty Cayton ’90 

1989-1993 

Board of 

Directors 

brad Laub ’01 

1999-2003 

Donald Warren ’98, ’00 

1994-1998 

rebecca Lewis ’08 

2004-2008 

(Not pictured: erin Yarborough McNair ’08, representing class years 2004-2008) 

Visit MU’s online alumni directory, Monarch Connections, today! 

To sign up, go to www.methodist.edu. click on Alumni, then click 

on the Monarch Connections logo or links and follow the log-in 

instructions. 

Once logged in you can: 

• Search the directory for your MU friends and former faculty by name 

• Search by year, geographic region, and by keyword 

• Click on any alumni e-mail address to send an e-mail 

• Edit your own information (i.e., add a full profile) 

• Post and read Class Notes, including photos 

(Class Notes will automatically be picked up for publication in the 

next MU Today) 

• Volunteer as a Mentor or search for one 

All members of Monarch Connections receive periodic updates and 

the Monarch Monitor, MU’s Alumni E-newsletter, from the University. 

Comments or questions? Contact us at alumnioffice@methodist.edu or 

call (910) 630-7200 or (800) 488-7110 – we’d love to hear from you! 

FALL 2010 | 17

HOMeCOMING 

2010 

OCTOBeR 22-23 

18 | MU Today 

register today and don’t miss out 

on all the fun, stories, laughter, 

and good times! You can register 

online at 

www.methodist.edu. 

“Thanks for the Memories” 

In Honor of Dr. and Mrs. M. Elton Hendricks 

remember all 

the good times and 

good friends you 

made as a Monarch?

Make your plans to travel back in time and remember 

the good old days at Methodist College/University, get 

reacquainted with your classmates from the 60s, 70s, 

80s, 90s, or 00s, and be amazed at the progress our 

alma mater has made in the years since we last visited! 

In the past two years alone, the new Visual Arts 

building and exhibition space has opened, two new 

Physician Assistant buildings have been constructed, 

and a spacious and attractive new Football Fieldhouse 

has been created from the old Boiler Plant! 

Homecoming kicks off with a Monarch Reunion Rally 

on Friday, October 22 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at 

ScrubOaks Contemporary American Pub, with an 

opportunity for classes in reunion to arrange for a 

class dinner immediately following. The rest of the 

weekend will be great fun and an important milestone 

as it honors Dr. M. Elton Hendricks’ last Homecoming 

as president and his and his wife Jerry’s 27 years of 

faithful service to the University with the theme, 

“Thanks for the Memories”! 

SCHEDUlE of EvENTS 

Friday, October 22, 2010 

4 p.m. – 6 p.m. Monarch reunion rally 

Alumni can meet, greet, eat, and get fired up for the Monarchs 

at the new Scruboaks Contemporary American Pub, adjacent 

to campus. Yearbooks for Classes in Reunion will be available for 

alumni to refresh memories of their days at MC/MU! Compliments 

of Scruboaks partners Tim and Gwen Holtsclaw ’92, ’68; 

J.P. Laird ’08, Darren Thompson ’96, and Scotti Sykes 

Marshburn ’96 (cash bar). 

6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. 

13th Annual Hall of Fame banquet 

Sponsored by the Monarch Booster Club and held in the 

March F. Riddle Center. reservations of $25.00 per 

person are due by october 8th. For more information, 

contact Athletic Director Bob McEvoy at (910) 630-7182 or 

mcevoy@methodist.edu. 

FALL 2010 | 19

saturday, October 23, 2010 

8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Alumni registration and 

Hospitality at the Green ’n Gold Tent 

Be sure to visit the Homecoming registration tent behind 

Walter and Margaret Clark Hall to pick up your FREE alumni goodie 

bag and to sign in! Check out a selection of Methodist University 

and Monarch items available for sale at the Alumni tent from the 

Bookstore and Golf Shop! Get your commemorative 2010 

Homecoming t-shirt! 

8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Alumni reunion breakfast 

After you’ve registered, reconnect and reminisce with former classmates 

and make new friends and memories, and enjoy a FREE continental 

breakfast compliments of the Office of Alumni Affairs! 

9:00 a.m. Choral reunion rehearsal 

Meet in the Choral Rehearsal Room of Reeves. For more information, 

contact Michael Martin at (910) 630-7153 or mmartin@methodist.edu. 

10:00 a.m. Women’s basketball Alumni reunion Game, 

March F. riddle Center 

For more information, contact Coach DeeDee Jarman at (910) 630-7283 

or djarman@methodist.edu. 

11:00 a.m. Men’s basketball Alumni reunion Game, 

March F. riddle Center 

For more information, contact Coach David Smith at (910) 630-7185 

or dsmith@methodist.edu. 

20 | MU Today 

10:00 a.m. Campus Tours 

Campus Walking Tour with Jim Darden ’69 

Jim Darden, Class of ’69 president and now MU’s horticulturist, keeps 

Methodist blooming in Monarch green and gold! He invites you to join 

him at the flagpole in front of the Horner Administration Building at 

10:00 a.m. for a walking tour to see campus improvements and hear his 

exciting plans for future beautification. 

Shuttle provided for the following tours at 10:00 a.m. 

at the Alumni registration Tent: 

• Tour the unique new William bethune Art building and McCune 

exhibit Gallery, dedicated in April 2010. 

• Take a look at the Nimocks Fitness Center and new Science 

building, including the virtual reality simulator! 

• A new lecture hall and human anatomy lab open this fall to 

expand the Physician Assistant program — be the first alumni to tour 

these new facilities! 

• Football Fieldhouse – the old Boiler Plant of Miss Boiler Plant 

Pageant fame is now a shining new fieldhouse! 

• A new Greek residence Hall, the start of a Greek village on 

campus! 

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. “Lunch on the Green” by 

Carrabba’s Italian Grill 

Carrabba’s Italian Grill proprietor Mark Moses ’97 promises fabulous 

fare for only $10.00 per person for all who pre-register for Homecoming 

by October 8, and $15.00 after the deadline. All proceeds benefit the 

Alumni Endowed Scholarship Fund. The 2010 MU Alumni Association 

Award Winners will be recognized, as well as past award winners. The 

Alumni Association pays musical tribute (led by former choral 

director betty-Neill Parsons) to Dr. and Mrs. Hendricks for 

their unparalleled contributions to the Methodist University 

community. The Alumni reunion Chorus, combined with the 

MU Chorale, will perform. This is the event that everyone loves to attend 

under the big white tent behind the Margaret and Walter Clark Building! 

1:00 p.m. Monarch Football vs. Averett University at 

Monarch Stadium 

Cheer the Monarchs to victory! To get your discounted alumni tickets for 

$3.00 you must pre-register by October 8, 2010. Alumni tickets will be 

available at the Green and Gold Alumni Registration Tent the day of the 

game for $5.00. General admission is $6.00. 

7:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. Methodist Alumni Party at 

Scruboaks Contemporary American Pub 

ScrubOaks is just north of the Methodist campus. Enjoy heavy 

hors d’oeuvres, live music and entertainment from every decade since 

the 50s, dancing, and a cash bar in a relaxed setting. Scruboaks 

partners Tim and Gwen Holtsclaw ’92, ’68; J.P. Laird ’08, 

Darren Thompson ’96, and Scotti Sykes Marshburn ’96, as well 

as members of the Alumni Association board of Directors, look 

forward to seeing you there! Dr. and Mrs. Hendricks will be on hand to 

welcome you from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. Cover charge is $15.00 for those 

who pre-register by October 8, $20.00 after the deadline.

Reunion Class of 1965 

Look wHo’S AttEndinG So fAr! 

Dave Altman • Glenn Bell ’66 • Paul Brill • Gene Coats • Jerry Daughtry 

Larry Green – Class reunion Contact, alegreen2@sbcglobal.net 

John Hamilton • Al Hayes • Dave Herring • Steve Holtz • Jerry Keen • Phil Levine 

Jerry Norris • Ann (Draughon) Perrow • George Potts • Orrin Powell • Becky Starling 

walter turner – Class reunion Contact, walter1@northstate.net • Cynthia Walker 

otHErS froM tHE 60s 

CoMMittEd to AttEnd HoMECoMinG to-dAtE: 

Guy “Bud” Beattie • Pat (and Gene) Clayton • Wanda Herring • Johnny Lipscomb 

Allen Osborne • Bunny (Dark) Osborne • Betty-Neil Guy Parsons 

Dr. Louis Spilman • Mary Fincher Wells 

office of development and Alumni Affairs, Methodist University 

5400 Ramsey Street | Fayetteville, NC 28311 

(910) 630-7200 | (800) 488-7110 

alumnioffice@methodist.edu | www.methodist.edu 

Holiday inn Bordeaux 

1707 Owen Drive 

Group code: EG6 

(910) 323-0111 — $86.00 

1-888-Holiday (465-4329) 

Where to stay 

these hotels have special Methodist University Homecoming rates for alumni 

if you make your reservations no later than october 1, 2010: 

innkeeper Cross Creek 

1700 Skibo Road 

Group code: Methodist University 

(910) 867-7659 — $62.00 

1970 

Ed “tuna” keil 

edtuna@aol.com 

dr. Linda McPhail 

lmcphail@wfubmc.edu 

trudi Jaber waters 

Rtwaters9@emarqmail.com 

1975 

donna Blalock wall 

beachquiverzzz@yahoo.com 

rev. dr. Jerry Jackson 

Jackson733690@bellsouth.net 

dwight Sheppard 

sheppadl@embarqmail.com 

Hon. J. Lee warren 

Getdeeds@infionline.net 

1980 

rev. thomas Sweeley 

tsweeley@charter.net 

Hampton inn Cross Creek 

1700 Skibo Road 

Group code: #86148409 

(910) 487-4006 — $89.00 

Class reunion Contacts 

1985 

teri Moore Brown 

tsmbrown@aol.com 

ronnie Mcneill 

Ronnie.mcneill@yahoo.com 

George Small 

geansm@aol.com 

1990 

Marty Cayton 

mcayton@amerizonwireless.com 

E. ron foster 

chaospath@hotmail.com 

1995 

Camisha Bell 

Mishma99@yahoo.com 

2000 

donald warren 

dmwarrent@yahoo.com 

rodney Parker 

parker@campbell.edu 

2005 

Larry Parker 

larryparker@ccs.k12.nc.us 

Hilton Garden inn 

4025 Sycamore Dairy Road 

Group code: Methodist University 

(910) 860-3600 — $119.00

5400 Ramsey Street 

Fayetteville, NC 28311-1498 

www.methodist.edu 

periodicals 

postage 

Help Make Coach Jim sypult the Liberty Mutual Division III 2010 

Coach of the Year! 

vote Daily Online from sept. 14 – Dec. 4 

• Visit www.methodist.edu • Select “Alumni” 

• Begin voting once per day from Sept. 14 – Dec. 4 

You can help us win $20,000 for the 

Methodist University Alumni Association! 

paid 

Sportsmanship. Integrity. Responsibility. Excellence. 

Football is about more than playing a game. Methodist University Head 

Football Coach Jim Sypult has been teaching players how to approach life 

for 18 years. He uses words like discipline, effort, success, perseverance, 

unselfishness, and spirit. He will retire at the end 

of the 2010 football season—let’s celebrate 

his coaching career and 2005 conference 

championship by voting him into the 

top 15 for consideration as a 2010 

Coach of the Year!

An Upward Momentum: - Methodist University

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